The culmination of months of training and preparation for thousands of athletes in a major American city during a specific year produced a quantifiable record of athletic achievement, capturing finishing times, placements, and participant data. For example, this data set allows comparisons between elite runners and age group competitors, offering a detailed snapshot of competitive running at a specific point in time.
This type of information holds significant value for several reasons. It provides a historical record of the event, allowing for analysis of trends in competitive running performance over time. The data can be used by runners to track personal progress, compare themselves to others, and set future goals. Furthermore, the results contribute to the broader narrative of the sporting event, highlighting outstanding achievements and showcasing the dedication and effort of all participants. The data can also be a valuable resource for researchers studying athletic performance, training methodologies, and the impact of factors like weather and course conditions.